David Leroy Nickens facts for kids

David Leroy Nickens (1794–1838) was an important leader in the early 1800s. He was born in Virginia and was once enslaved, but he gained his freedom. Nickens became a minister and worked hard to help his community.

He is remembered for being the first African-American minister to get a license to preach in Ohio. This happened in July 1824.

Early Life and Work

David Leroy Nickens was born in 1794. He lived in Virginia during a time when many people were enslaved. After gaining his freedom, he moved to Ohio.

In Ohio, Nickens became a leader in his community. He believed strongly in education for all children.

Helping Education

Nickens worked with other important people who wanted to end slavery. These people were called abolitionists. He teamed up with Theodore Dwight Weld and Augustus Wattles.

Together, they worked to improve schools for black children in Chillicothe, Ohio. They wanted to make sure all children had a chance to learn.

Church Leadership

David Leroy Nickens also played a big role in starting churches. He was chosen to be the first pastor of the Union Baptist Church. This church was in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The Union Baptist Church was founded on July 21, 1831. Nickens led the church and helped it grow.

Later Life and Family

David Leroy Nickens passed away in Cincinnati in 1838. He was buried in the Union Baptist Cemetery. This cemetery is in a Cincinnati neighborhood called Price Hill.

After his death, his wife, Serena, and their children moved back to Chillicothe. They lived out their lives there.